For a while, it's felt as though clubbing in London has been under attack. Now, the capital's primary party district—Hackney—has crept into the crosshairs of councils, developers, and residents, as it faces the prospect of what nightclub owners are calling a "ban" on new clubs.

With numerous night-spot closures and near-misses, it increasingly seems that London's nightlife is being run by a cabal of fun-police intent on ruining your vibe. (This cabal...